Tony Romo’s back surgery comes a week after suffering the injury during the Cowboys’ incredible comeback win against the Washington Redskins last weekend. He could be seen limping around the field as the Cowboys drove down the field to get the 24-23 victory. By beating the Redskins, the Cowboys assured themselves an opportunity to play for the top spot in the NFC East against Philadelphia in week 17.

The conversation all week was whether or not Romo would be able to play against the Eagles. Armed with one of the best offenses in the NFL, the Eagles are sure to put up points against the struggling Dallas defense. Without Tony Romo, many question whether the Cowboys can put up the necessary numbers to contend. The Cowboys will rely on veteran quarterback Kyle Orton, most known for losing his job to Tim Tebow in Denver.

Tony Romo’s back surgery is not something the Dallas quarterback is unfamiliar with. He has battled back injuries throughout his career, including a battle with back problems in 2010.

“The procedure happened this morning,” Garrett said. “We felt the surgery went well. Tony should be able to come home later today and start his rehabilitation. He’ll start his road to recovery, sooner rather than later. We’re completely confident he will rehab and come back at 100 percent.”

Tony Romo, 33, is aging and will most certainly have difficulty recovering from the back surgery. He can look to Peyton Manning as an example of what a successful recovery from major surgery can look like. Manning is dominating the NFL just two seasons after having serious neck surgery to repair an injury similar to Romo’s.

Jon Kitna, 41, was signed to the Cowboys roster as a third string quarterback on Tuesday. His chances of being needed were increased with the Tony Romo back surgery on Friday.